Interviews: Londonsmoke

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Gothic Rock artist Londonsmoke. Check out the interview and enjoy it.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name? Was it planned, or did it just happen organically?

The stage name I chose, Londonsmoke, came to me spontaneously. I was looking for a short name that would immediately convey what I aim to express through my music. The contraction of the name, derived from Smoke of London, instantly made me think of a dark gray color—the color of formal and elegant attire often worn for special occasions and ceremonies. Additionally, it reminded me of that dark, smoky, damp, and gray late-19th-century London atmosphere—a gloomy and decadent mood that I strive to evoke in my songs.

2. Why did you choose to play this genre?

You know, you don’t really choose a genre—it chooses you, based on your attitude, your thoughts, and your style. Throughout my long career, trust me, I’ve collaborated in various ways with artists from all kinds of genres, but this blend of Gothic Rock with a touch of the Crooner style is simply part of who I am and how I express myself.

3. Did you know each other before forming the band?

I'm a solo Artist

4. What is each band member's favorite band?

I have many favorite bands across different genres. For example, I love the music of H.I.M., Depeche Mode, Joy Division, and The Killers—going as far as Duran Duran. I also appreciate solo projects, like those of Till Lindemann. In short, a great lineup of legendary artists!

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

I'm inspired by what I see every day. You should know that I live in a small town surrounded by greenery, but almost every day, I spend time in a big Italian city like Milan. There are endless sources of inspiration. And when night falls, I find myself spontaneously writing down ideas and lyrics, which I later develop with the producers.

6. Where was your last gig?

In Milan, a week ago

7. Where would you like to perform in the future?

Anywhere there are conditions to share my music in a respectful way.

8. Which artist or band would you like to collaborate with?

It would be hundreds. In my music career, which has covered all aspects of the industry, I've collaborated with great bands, such as Death SS, Mandragora Scream, and Extrema in promotion. I've also managed stage direction for the biggest Italian singers. I can't give you a precise answer—there would really be too many.

9. Is there anyone you wouldn’t want to collaborate with?

Not with any particular name, but I wouldn't want to collaborate with the trap scene or autotune music—I can't stand it.

10. Have any of you ever experienced stage fright? Do you have any tips for beginners on overcoming?

No, I’ve never experienced stage fright. In fact, it’s a type of adrenaline that I enjoy and need to feel like a normal person. So, no advice really—I just say let go of the fear when you’re on stage, have fun, and try to connect with the audience, even if it’s just one person.

11. Which bands have influenced you the most?

As I was saying before. Depeche Mode, Him, The Killers, David Bowie, Joy Division...

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

Once, some time ago, a girl asked me how much I would charge to write down permission for her to use one of my songs at her funeral... We ended up laughing about it at the bar.

13. What do you think of your fans?

I don't think I have fans, just friends who enjoy what I write and sing.

14. What do you think of our site?

As I was saying, having often worked with labels and bands, including for promotion, I’m very familiar with your website. What I like, first of all, is the opportunity you give artists to get noticed through interviews like this one, and believe me, these kinds of platforms are almost nonexistent now. Secondly, I see a lot of interesting content, which is a sign of the passion and professionalism with which you carry out your work, and for that, I thank you very much.

15. Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Yes, I would like to send a big thank you to everyone who reads this interview, to you for always giving us artists such an important platform, and to all those who will give "Lost in my fingers" a chance to be heard during their days or nights.